Address by James K Stewart before the Police Executive Research Forum Concerning Future Changes in the Role of the Police in the Areas of Drugs and Crime and the Need for More Research in the Battle on May 24, 1989

• NCJ Number: 118031
• Author(s): J K Stewart
• Date Published: 1989
• Length: 15 pages
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Publication Type: Issue Overview
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

The Director of NIJ describes research related to the role of the police in the areas of drugs and crime and discusses the future of policing related to drugs and crime.

Abstract

Research and field testing regarding problem-oriented policing has shown the need for interagency cooperation to address crime problems. In particular, the problem-oriented model can help in the efforts to address drugs and crime. In a shift from past policy, both sellers and users are to be held accountable. Specific efforts include the use of civil law and other sanctions that do not overload the courts and the police, enlisting the support of community groups, seizing assets of both sellers and users, addressing street sales, and using civil abatement procedures. Some States and jurisdictions are also suspending drivers' licenses and putting other professional licenses in jeopardy. In New York City, the police are using tactical narcotics teams. Money laundering is another area of focus. NIJ is gathering information through the Drug Use Forecasting System and is computerizing law enforcement information about drug trafficking. The police have an important role to play in the efforts against drugs and have provided valuable perspectives to NIJ.